riverton-community-housing

Charting a Path for Growth

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 15:02:21 GMT

Riverton’s Strategic Plan to Deepen our Impact

At Riverton Community Housing, we are guided by the principle that a strong and resilient organization is built on a foundation of deeply held core values and strategic foresight. In our recent strategic planning process, we took a significant step in redefining our path forward, firmly anchoring our future endeavors in the values that have always shaped our mission.

Strategic planning is the backbone of our efforts to set clear objectives, allocate resources efficiently, and strengthen our operations. For Riverton Community Housing, strategic planning is more than a business imperative; it's a chance to revisit and reinforce our core values across all aspects of our work. These values act as our north star, informing our strategic choices and organizational direction.

A key outcome of our strategic plan was the decision to add a shared ownership equity gaining co-op model to our offerings. This approach is in harmony with our core values and aims to foster shared equity, while integrating environmental and financial sustainability with stronger community engagement. This unified strategy adds strength to the communities we serve. success.

Looking ahead, our strategic priorities are clear:

Development of New Cooperative Operating Model: We will survey the current market to identify, access, and implement potential alternative cooperative models that align with Riverton's values and vision. This includes exploring alternative forms of homeownership, such as limited equity co-ops, that offer easier entry into ownership and provide a continuum of housing options.

Enhanced Financial Sustainability Initiatives: We will focus on building the organization's long-term financial stability by developing tools to assess cash flow, capital improvements, and investments. This includes creating a dynamic cash flow tool, establishing a unit renovation plan, and reviewing ESG goals to inform investment guidelines.

Enhanced Community Engagement Initiatives: We will continue to strengthen and enrich our collaboration with our cooperative communities. This includes developing a business plan for our Community Engagement Department, establishing impact assessment metrics, defining objectives for an Alumni Relations Program, and engaging in relevant policy initiatives through public policy.

Intentional Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: We will develop green standards for materials, products and systems used in our co-ops, identify funding opportunities, and create educational programs to facilitate environmental sustainability efforts. This includes establishing renovation standards, defining procedures for enhanced use of our Environmental Fund, and conducting educational events on green living.

These strategic priorities are interconnected and mutually reinforcing, allowing us to build a more sustainable, equitable, and engaged community. By adding a shared ownership equity gaining co-op model, we can offer innovative and equitable homeownership options. Enhanced financial sustainability ensures the long-term viability of our organization. Deeper community engagement fosters a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. And intentional environmental initiatives contribute to a healthier planet for current and future generations.

"I am energized by Riverton's strategic vision, which is aimed at deepening our impact. From leveraging the housing co-op model to help bridge the homeownership gap in Minnesota to an intentional focus on environmental sustainability to building out a Community Engagement Department, we are continually looking for ways to influence positive community change." - Mary Novak, Executive Director

As we research the addition of a shared ownership co-op model, stakeholder engagement remains a top priority. We believe that by aligning closely with our values and involving the community, we can meet today's needs and lay the groundwork for a sustainable, inclusive future.

Join us on this transformative journey as Riverton Community Housing moves confidently into a future where our community stands stronger and more empowered than ever.

Celebrating Exceptional Leadership: Congratulations to Our Grant Recipients!

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:13:18 GMT

Meet our inspiring grant recipients who are making a difference in their communities through active citizenship, civic leadership, and cooperative principles.

Riverton Community Housing is excited to announce the recipients of this year's Annual Grant. These two individuals have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community involvement, active citizenship, civic leadership, and cooperative principles. Join us in congratulating Nishanth Somashekara Murthy and Lexi Olson, our inspiring grant recipients who have truly made a difference in their communities.

Nishanth Somashekara Murthy: A Leader in Cooperative Living

Nishanth, a Doctoral student in Electrical Engineering at the University of Minnesota, serves as the President of our Chateau Community Housing Co-op board. His efforts to collaborate with other local co-ops and actively participate in community betterment initiatives exemplify the true spirit of cooperative living. Nishanth's commitment to learning and sharing knowledge is further demonstrated through his active participation in education and workshops hosted by the North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO).

As an international student balancing academic pursuits with community involvement, Nishanth faces unique challenges. The Riverton Community Housing Grant will provide him with the necessary support to focus on his education and invest in capacity-building initiatives that will benefit our communities. With a strong desire to make a positive impact, Nishanth plans to support outreach efforts and strengthen cooperative bonds.

Lexi Olson: A Champion of Sustainability and Community Engagement

Lexi, a student in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota, is a dedicated member of our Chateau Community Housing Co-op board. Her innovative efforts to improve recycling and implement composting programs exemplify the true spirit of cooperative living and environmental responsibility. As the coordinator of the recycling committee, Lexi has revamped the recycling system to emphasize education and objectivity, creating a more sustainable and informed community.

In addition to her local community work, Lexi actively participates in volunteer opportunities throughout the Twin Cities, further demonstrating her commitment to positive change. Her dedication to education and community engagement strengthens the co-op movement as a whole. The Riverton Community Housing Grant will provide Lexi with valuable opportunities to further her education and pursue her goals in sustainability. With this grant, she plans to support outreach efforts and invest in capacity-building initiatives that will benefit our communities.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Nishanth Somashekara Murthy and Lexi Olson for this well-deserved recognition. We eagerly await the positive impact they will continue to make and the bright futures that lie ahead for them.

We would also like to express our gratitude to all the applicants who participated in the Riverton Community Housing Grant. Your passion for community involvement and cooperative principles is inspiring. Together, let us continue to build cooperative communities that thrive on active citizenship, civic leadership, and a shared commitment to the greater good.

Strengthening Minnesota's Cooperative Housing Models

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:41:01 GMT

A Path to Equity and Stability

At the forefront of progressive housing solutions in Minnesota, Riverton Community Housing is a key player, working closely with the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD). As we examine critical co-op legislation in our state, it's clear that these initiatives are vital for fostering equitable and stable communities.

According to the data provided by MCCD, cooperative housing stands as an effective strategy to combat income inequality. It empowers communities through shared ownership and sustains vibrant neighborhoods by providing perpetual affordability. These co-ops build a sense of belonging and offer a path to wealth and stability, especially for BIPOC and underrepresented groups. The tradition of cooperative housing is long-standing in Minnesota, with Minneapolis alone home to 35 housing co-ops. This prevalence underscores the community's dedication to shared, equitable housing models that have been part of the city's fabric for years. Despite the positive impact of housing co-ops, they continue to face critical barriers: the scarcity of development capital, financing, down payment assistance, and technical support. These challenges hinder the growth and maintenance of cooperative housing projects, underscoring the need for legislative support and resources.

The 2024 Housing Cooperative Package includes two policy and funding priorities designed to strengthen the cooperative housing sector:

Affordable Housing Cooperative Technical Assistance Fund

This $5 million proposal aims to fund nonprofits and Community Development Financial Institutions to provide essential technical assistance services, free of charge. The focus is on helping housing co-ops across Minnesota to thrive, with particular attention to supporting BIPOC, women, immigrants, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

Affordable Homeownership Cooperative Down Payment Assistance Fund

This $25 million one-time funding initiative mirrors the First-Generation Homebuyers Down Payment Assistance Fund . It provides crucial share purchasing assistance for households at or below 115% AMI, enabling them to invest in housing co-ops and build generational wealth.

Additionally, the Minnesota Cooperative Housing Act (Chapter 308C) aims to offer housing co-ops a standardized framework for development. This legislation is crucial for creating a consistent and supportive environment for cooperative housing models to flourish.

The Housing Cooperative Bill Package is a landmark opportunity to reshape Minnesota's housing landscape. By embracing cooperative models, we open doors to homeownership for those who have long been marginalized, creating a ripple effect of opportunity and wealth. This legislative effort, if successful, will not only transform the housing sector but also infuse our communities with the stability and equity they so rightly deserve.

The Story Behind the Chateau Mural

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 03:22:21 GMT

Transforming Walls and Building A Community-Led Artistic Journey

Plans for a vibrant new addition to Dinkytown's architecture are in their final stages of planning and will soon begin to take shape. The Mural Committee for Riverton Community Housing's Chateau building recently met to unveil the mural concept that will grace the south side of the Chateau Student Housing Co-op building.

This mural is more than just paint on a wall; it's a testament to dreams, community engagement, and the creativity of Minnesota-based artist Jacqui Rosenbush . With over a decade of experience in crafting large-scale expressionistic paintings, mosaics, and murals across the Twin Cities, Jacqui's work is a playful exploration of nature's intersection with humanity. Her commitment to community engagement, studio management, and collaborative artistry has been instrumental in bringing over 35 murals to life. Her roles as a Commissioner for Creative Placemaking in Bloomington and Set Designer for Circus Juventas in Saint Paul further demonstrate her dedication to art that transcends mere aesthetics.

The mural is designed to foster a sense of place, identity, and economic vitality, integrating seamlessly with Dinkytown's architectural charm. Jacqui doesn't just impose art on a wall; she facilitates true community collaboration. The creation process is set to involve multiple phases, including community painting events and meticulous installation planned for May/June, designed to engage residents and participants at every step.

This initiative sprouts from the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. Funding from the " Good Neighbor Fund " and contributions from Chateau and Marshall Student Cooperatives and the Fourth St. Cooperative demonstrate a community-driven approach. A comprehensive survey has been instrumental in shaping a design that encapsulates the essence of leaving home, embracing growth, and celebrating education.

Through Polytab canvases, the mural's creation will welcome individuals of all skill levels to contribute to the artwork's fabric, thereby enhancing the community spirit inherent in this project. As the mural evolves, it promises to be a vibrant addition to Dinkytown's landscape by mid-2024. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting community endeavor.

Riverton Community Housing Joins NCBA CLUSA International

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:22:02 GMT

Empowering Communities Through Cooperative Values and Global Collaboration

We are excited to share that Riverton Community Housing has officially become a proud member of the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA). This milestone marks a significant leap forward, connecting us with a vast global network of cooperatives all dedicated to advancing the cooperative movement. This membership holds immense importance for us, as it reinforces our unwavering commitment to the seven Cooperative Principles, empowering us to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable community.

October was a special month as it marked National Co-op Month , an initiative that highlighted the unique strengths that distinguish cooperatives in the marketplace. We consider ourselves fortunate to be part of Minnesota, a state that stands at the forefront of the cooperative movement. With over 800 co-ops serving approximately three million member-owners, Minnesota's cooperatives address a diverse range of essential needs in our communities. From marketing and purchasing farm products to providing crucial financial services, delivering essential utilities, offering vital healthcare, housing, insurance, and food options - co-ops play a central role in driving Minnesota's economy and society forward.

What sets cooperatives like Riverton apart is their unwavering commitment to shared principles of democracy, equity, and solidarity. Unlike traditional corporations, co-ops prioritize democratic decision-making, ensuring that every member-owner has a voice in shaping the business's operations.

At Riverton, we wholeheartedly embrace the principles and values that define the cooperative model. We firmly believe that by doing so, we contribute to building something that benefits all members of our community. Joining the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International is a pivotal moment for Riverton Community Housing. It opens up a world of opportunities for us to learn from and collaborate with a diverse range of cooperatives on a global scale. This membership grants us access to invaluable resources, expertise, and a platform to advocate for the cooperative movement.

By aligning with NCBA CLUSA, we strengthen our commitment to the Cooperative Principles and further our mission of building a more inclusive, sustainable, and community-centric economy. Together, we can create a future where cooperative businesses like Riverton play a central role in shaping resilient and thriving communities. Join us in this exciting journey towards a brighter, more cooperative future!

Cooperatives and Community Engagement: Supporting Project Dinkytown at the University of Minnesota

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:47:57 GMT

Uniting Cooperatives and Communities for Sustainable Change in Dinkytown

At Riverton Community Housing, we understand the significance of community engagement and sustainability. That's why we're thrilled to announce our support for a remarkable new club at the University of Minnesota – Project Dinkytown. This passionate group is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the beloved Dinkytown neighborhood through various initiatives such as group cleanups and infrastructure assessments. Their mission aligns perfectly with our cooperative principles, particularly our commitment to the "Concern For Community."

Project Dinkytown exemplifies the power of community engagement. Through organized cleanups and infrastructure assessments, they actively contribute to the well-being of the Dinkytown neighborhood. This hands-on approach not only improves the physical environment but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among community members. It's this kind of dedication that can transform a neighborhood and make it a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant place for everyone.

Concern for Community is the seventh cooperative principle, emphasizing the importance of actively contributing to the well-being of local neighborhoods. At Riverton Community Housing, we believe in sourcing materials and investing in local suppliers to promote sustainability. By doing so, we not only support local businesses but also reduce our environmental footprint. Additionally, we encourage policies that consider the broader community, ensuring that our actions have a positive impact beyond our immediate surroundings.

While community engagement is crucial at the local level, it's equally important to think globally. Cooperatives have the potential to make a significant impact on a worldwide scale. By working together within their networks, cooperatives can address issues that affect communities globally, from environmental sustainability to social equity. This collaborative effort amplifies the reach and influence of each cooperative, demonstrating the true power of collective action.

To stay updated on Project Dinkytown's progress, we encourage you to follow them on Instagram @project_dinkytown . Their page offers inspiring stories, photos from their cleanups, and information about upcoming events. Additionally, we invite you to join Project Dinkytown every Friday at 11:30 AM for their trash cleanup activities. Your participation can make a real difference in the Dinkytown community.

Supporting initiatives like Project Dinkytown is not just about improving a neighborhood; it's about demonstrating the potential for positive change that arises when communities come together. At Riverton Community Housing, we are proud to stand behind Project Dinkytown's mission and encourage others to get involved. Together, we can create a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant Dinkytown for all its residents and visitors.

A Legacy of Cooperative Culture: Riverton Community Housing's 50th Anniversary Event Recap

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 21:37:42 GMT

Highlights of Riverton Community Housing's 50th Anniversary event, a celebration of five decades of co-op culture, transformative impact, and vibrant community building.

It was a day of reminiscence, gratitude, and hope for the future as Riverton Community Housing celebrated its 50th anniversary on July 25th, 2023, at the vibrant Fair State Brewing Cooperative. The event brought together a diverse community of current and past members, board members, staff, and sponsors who have all played pivotal roles in shaping our remarkable journey.

Opening the event, Mary Novak, Executive Director, took a moment to acknowledge the unsung heroes of Riverton—the past and current housing board members. "These are the visionaries and the proponents of co-op culture," she remarked. "Without these people, Riverton would be just housing."

The event wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of sponsors. Bridgewater Bank and Colliers Mortgage were recognized as gold sponsors, with decades-long partnerships with Riverton, contributing not just financially, but as problem solvers and dealmakers. Silver sponsors, including UrbanWorks Architecture, USI Insurance Services, and Frana Construction, were recognized for their instrumental roles in designing, building, insuring, and protecting co-ops. Their partnership has made every endeavor smoother and more effective.

The event also served as an introduction to Riverton's newest legacy video, which showcased the co-op experience and provided a glimpse into the lives of past and present members. The video exemplified the transformative power of co-ops, highlighting the profound impact of our organization.

Dave Rugg, a distinguished figure in Riverton's history, shared reflections on his extensive involvement. He described the challenges faced, notably the successful transition from the co-op model of the 1970s and 1980s to the current leasehold model. David also emphasized the collective effort behind Riverton's success, expressing gratitude to fellow board members. He recounted a significant achievement—securing Section 8 housing vouchers for the first time. It was a momentous challenge that showcased Riverton's capacity for innovation and adaptability. "Riverton today is just so cool," Dave added. From being the largest student housing co-op in North America to spearheading innovative solutions for housing insecurity, Riverton continues to lead the way.

Next, Koushik Sampath, a present-day Co-op member, recounted that his journey from a newcomer to Vice President of Chateau Student Housing Co-op was marked by his unwavering dedication to community building. He shared how being a part of the board allowed him to contribute meaningfully, creating events that brought the community together. Koushik’s enthusiasm for Riverton's future was infectious, as he expressed hope that the torch of community-building would be carried forward by future generations.

As the event neared its conclusion, Jason Kenley, President of the Riverton Community Housing Nonprofit Board of Directors, spoke passionately about his 15-year journey with Riverton. Having witnessed the profound impact on communities, individuals, and the larger society, he emphasized the potential for Riverton to continue its transformative work.

The 50th-anniversary celebration was a testament to Riverton's enduring spirit of cooperation and community. As the event concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism for the future. Cheers to 50 years, and here's to many more!

Check out the full album of event photos on our Facebook page!

Powering Change: How Solar Energy is Revolutionizing Riverton Community Housing

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 17:32:24 GMT

Discover how solar energy is transforming Riverton Community Housing, making it sustainable and eco-friendly while exceeding 2023 energy production forecasts.

Harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity has long been hailed as one of the most promising solutions to combat climate change and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. At Riverton Community Housing, we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, taking concrete steps towards a sustainable future by embracing solar energy.

In our commitment to making a positive impact on the environment, we joined forces with All Energy Solar in 2021 to install solar panels on three of our co-ops: Brook Avenue, Fourth Street, and Franklin Housing Co-ops. This collaboration resulted in the installation of a total of 400kW of rooftop solar, a significant milestone in our journey towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable living within our communities. The solar energy generated by these installations has tangible economic advantages for our co-ops. The energy savings from the rooftop solar systems help offset the energy consumption on the common area meters. By producing clean energy locally, we reduce the need to purchase electricity from the grid, resulting in a lower carbon footprint for our communities and long-term cost savings for our members.

But the environmental benefits of solar energy extend beyond simply reducing carbon emissions. Each megawatt-hour (MWh) of energy produced by our solar panels also generates a Renewable Energy Credit (REC). These credits represent the environmental attributes of renewable energy production and can be "retired" to claim the associated environmental benefits. Alternatively, they can be sold to other entities, allowing them to benefit from the positive environmental impact. Looking ahead, the projected environmental benefits over the course of 25 years are truly remarkable, amounting to over 7,000 metric tons of CO2 offset. To put this into perspective, it is equivalent to displacing 7,000,000 pounds of burned coal, planting 190,000 trees, or taking 1,500 gasoline-driven passenger vehicles off the road for an entire year. These numbers underscore the immense positive impact that renewable energy can have on our environment.

Incredibly, the solar panels installed at Riverton Community Housing have already surpassed our initial energy production forecasts in 2023. This achievement not only demonstrates the efficiency and reliability of solar technology but also highlights the immense potential that exists for further solar expansion in our communities. By embracing solar energy, Riverton Community Housing has set a powerful example for others to follow. We are proving that sustainable living is not only achievable but also economically viable. As we continue to harness the power of the sun, we are actively shaping a brighter and cleaner future for ourselves and future generations.

Celebrating Remarkable Community Leaders: Congrats to Our Grant Recipients!

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Meet our inspiring grant recipients who are making a difference in their communities through active citizenship, civic leadership, and cooperative principles.

At Riverton Community Housing, we are delighted to announce the recipients of this year's Riverton Community Housing Grant. These two individuals have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community involvement, active citizenship, civic leadership, and cooperative principles. Join us in congratulating Bianca G Costa of the Chateau Co-op and Medewe Pessang of the Franklin Avenue Co-op, our inspiring grant recipients who have truly made a difference in their communities.

Bianca G Costa, a board member at the Chateau Co-op, has been a dedicated advocate for promoting diversity and fostering strong community relationships. Through her active participation in community events, Bianca has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps and bring people together. Her unwavering commitment to the cooperative principles and her propensity towards civic leadership are highly commendable.

As an international graduate student in animal sciences, Bianca faces the unique challenges of balancing her academic pursuits with community involvement. The Riverton Community Housing Grant will provide her with the necessary support to focus on her education and invest in capacity courses related to sustainable living. With a strong desire to make a positive environmental impact, Bianca plans to involve the Chateau Co-op in recycling awareness and proper disposal of compostable waste. Her efforts will not only benefit the cooperative but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the community.

The second grant recipient, Medewe Pessang, serves as the Board President and an active volunteer at the Franklin Avenue Co-op. Medewe's dedication to civic leadership is exemplified through their involvement in the Franklin's youth 4-H program. By focusing on gardening, nutrition, and environmental education, Medewe has empowered the youth of her community to develop essential skills and a deeper understanding of sustainable living practices.

As a Communication Studies major, Medewe's passion lies in teaching and empowering others through effective communication. The Riverton Community Housing Grant will provide her with valuable opportunities to further their education and pursue her goals in the field of communication. Medewe's commitment to community development and her drive to make a positive impact will undoubtedly inspire and benefit the members of the Franklin Avenue Co-op.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Bianca G Costa and Medewe Pessang, our outstanding grant recipients. Their dedication, leadership, and community-oriented approach are truly remarkable. As they continue to pursue their academic and personal goals, we have no doubt that they will contribute significantly to the cooperative movement and the betterment of their communities.

We would also like to express our gratitude to all the applicants who participated in the Riverton Community Housing Grant. Your passion for community involvement and cooperative principles is truly inspiring. Together, let us continue to build cooperative communities that thrive on active citizenship, civic leadership, and a shared commitment to the greater good.

Once again, congratulations to Bianca G Costa and Medewe Pessang on this well-deserved recognition. We eagerly await the positive impact they will continue to make and the bright futures that lie ahead for them.

The Importance of Connection: Riverton Community Housing's Efforts to Combat Loneliness

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:26:20 GMT

Riverton Community Housing showcases their dedication to community involvement through a graduation event honoring graduating residents, emphasizing collective effort and organic growth.

Humans have an inherent need for social connections and a sense of belonging. However, individuals living in apartments often experience isolation and loneliness. Recognizing the profound health effects of these issues, the US Surgeon General recently released guidelines outlining a "National Strategy to Advance Social Connection." In line with this initiative, Riverton Community Housing is committed to alleviating these feelings and fostering connections among its members.

Building a Vibrant and Welcoming Community:

Riverton Community Housing understands the importance of creating a vibrant and welcoming community for its residents. By organizing a variety of community events, social clubs, and initiatives, the co-op actively works to ensure that its residents feel a sense of belonging. These activities provide opportunities for individuals to connect with their neighbors and cultivate meaningful relationships.

Recognizing Community Contributions:

As part of their dedication to community involvement, Riverton Community Housing recently hosted a graduation event to honor graduating residents. This celebration not only highlights the achievements of individuals but also emphasizes the collective effort that drives the community forward. Through contributions from members, Riverton's co-ops thrive, allowing the community to grow organically and ensuring that everyone has a voice.

Opportunities for Involvement and Leadership Development:

Riverton Community Housing takes pride in knowing residents have opportunities for community involvement and leadership development. By encouraging active participation in decision-making processes and providing platforms for residents to contribute their ideas, the co-ops empowers individuals to take ownership of their community. This approach fosters a sense of pride and belonging, enabling residents to shape the environment they live in.

Loneliness and isolation can have significant health effects, making it crucial to prioritize social connections. Riverton Community Housing understands this imperative and actively works to alleviate these feelings among its residents. Our co-ops fosters a lively and inclusive environment by means of community events, social clubs, and leadership programs that promote active participation and connectedness among its members.

For more information on the US Surgeon General's guidelines and the framework for advancing social connections, please visit: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/05/02/surgeon-general-epidemic-of-loneliness-america/70174115007/

Riverton Community Housing's Impact Report: Building Stronger Communities

Wed, 10 May 2023 21:00:02 GMT

Riverton Community Housing's Impact Report showcases sustainable and equitable housing initiatives, community engagement, and rebranding efforts.

Riverton Community Housing is proud to announce the release of its 2020-2023 Impact Report. The report showcases the significant impact that Riverton Community Housing has had on the lives of its members and the broader community. It provides a detailed overview of the organization's commitment to creating and fostering a high-quality living experience through a nonprofit and democratic model. Additionally, the report highlights the various programs and initiatives that Riverton Community Housing has implemented to support its members' well-being.

Of particular note in the report is Riverton Community Housing's focus on sustainability. The organization has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint by implementing energy-efficient practices and utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar panels on Brook, Fourth Street, and Franklin Avenue Co-ops. The report also outlines the successful redevelopment of the former Bunge Grain Elevator site as a demonstration of Riverton's commitment to sustainable living.

The report further emphasizes Riverton Community Housing's dedication to community engagement, which has been a cornerstone of its success. The organization has fostered a sense of community among its members, particularly during the pandemic, by offering opportunities for socialization, education, and personal growth in cooperative housing.

Lastly, Riverton Community Housing has recently undergone a rebranding initiative in 2021, updating its logo and website to better reflect its mission and vision. The new logo captures the organization's essence as a community builder, and the updated website provides a user-friendly platform for engaging with the cooperative housing movement.

To read the entire report, please visit the " About Us " section of Riverton.org or follow the link provided: https://bit.ly/rivertontimpactreport2023.

Riverton Community Housing hopes that this report will serve as a valuable resource for all those invested in creating sustainable and equitable housing opportunities.

National Farmers Union Hosts College Conference on Cooperatives

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 21:42:54 GMT

Students from around the country had a unique opportunity to gain valuable insight into the cooperative business model.

In February, the National Farmers Union (NFU) hosted the College Conference on Cooperatives (CCOC) in Minneapolis. It was a three-day event that included talks by experts in the field of cooperatives, interactive activities, and guided tours of nearby co-ops.

The CCOC was attended by students from all over the country, and was beneficial to both those with prior co-op knowledge and those new to the industry.

The NFU has a long history of involvement in the cooperative movement, and the CCOC is a perfect example of the value that Farmers Union provides to its members and the wider community. It was wonderful to see so many bright and motivated college students gathering to learn more about cooperatives and their potential. During the conference, participants had the chance to engage in meaningful dialogue with those who had extensive experience in the field. Furthermore, they were able to get a first-hand look at the inner workings of local cooperatives during the guided tours.

Participants of CCOC had the opportunity to hear from a wide array of speakers from both local and national cooperatives. The keynote lunch, sponsored by CoMinnesota and hosted by the Ralph K. Morris Foundation, featured a keynote address from Megan Rock, Chief Sustainability Officer and Vice President of Sustainability at CHS Inc. Attendees also had the chance to attend seminars on topics such as cooperative development, marketing, and legal considerations. Furthermore, this event provided participants the chance to network with people from different parts of the country who shared the same commitment to cooperatives.

The NFU has long been an advocate of cooperative development, investing in programs that promote rural economic development and support existing agricultural cooperatives. They make a concerted effort to help family farmers and ranchers create new value for the food, fiber, and energy they produce through the formation of farmer cooperatives and other rural businesses. Additionally, they provide resources to help members make informed decisions about cooperative membership and how to best utilize those resources. Finally, the NFU offers advice on topics like financial management and marketing to ensure the long-term sustainability of their members’ cooperatives.

More information on the conference can be found at: https://nfu.org/ccoc/

#ApartmentLeasing #PropertyManagement #Multifamily #Apartment #StudentHousing

After 50 Years, still creating cost-effective, collaborative communities.

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 19:46:25 GMT

Riverton Community Housing completes a major rebranding effort and launches new blog as a forum for collaboration.

For the past fifty years, Riverton Community Housing has been deeply committed to creating cost-effective and collaborative housing solutions benefitting our Minneapolis based communities. Over the years, we have continued to strive towards sustainable growth, and our goal is to commemorate our 50th anniversary with an updated identity that reflects our commitment and dedication to our mission. We realized that in order to stay competitive in a rapidly changing digital world, modern technology and marketing tools will help us continue to build member-governed communities for the next generation. We are confident that we can continue to provide access to quality housing at a fair price for decades to come.

To share our success and commitment to meeting our mission over the past five decades, we are proud to announce the launch of our Riverton Community Housing blog. It is our goal to provide a platform for our stakeholders, partners, and community members to learn more about us, our impact, and the ways in which we are creating housing solutions. This blog will provide the opportunity to connect and grow our housing community. It is here that we will post stories and feature insights from our various co-ops and their members. This blog is also a platform for us to share how our values and actions are helping create a greener, more sustainable, cooperative housing future. We strive to remain a human-centered organization each and every day, and this new forum will allow us to share the latest tips, resources, and collaboration that shapes our unique and defining community culture.

In 2022, we completed a major rebranding effort that involved the collaboration of our stakeholders and student-led organizations. This effort resulted in several new technologies and processes that enabled us to strengthen our co-op housing solutions. Additionally, this process allowed us to better serve our community and drive innovation. It also resulted in greater communication and transparency with our stakeholders, which has enabled us to provide better customer service. Some of these implementations included Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software, fully branded websites, and reputation management processes. In addition, the new branding efforts have made us more recognizable in our local communities, and this has been further supported by our partnerships with a wide range of external organizations. As we continue to deliver quality housing at a fair price, our residents will have a collaborative voice in decisions that shape their living experience and grow. This has enabled us to create an environment where all opinions are respected, and our commitment to collaboration has enabled us to gain insights into the long-term impact of our decisions.

Future blog posts will highlight:

Our Core Values: How did we choose our fundamental beliefs and highest priorities?

The Co-op Advantage: What is member-governed cooperative housing and what is the experience like?

Our History: How did Riverton Community Housing start in a dining hall and is continuing to serve as a leader in cooperative housing?

Sustainability: How do our properties utilize resources efficiently to reduce our environmental impact?

Riverton Community Housing is excited for the next 50 years and beyond. We are dedicated to our mission of providing quality housing at a fair price and bringing together a diverse community of residents who share our core values. Together, we are creating a better living experience for our residents and stronger, more vibrant communities. It’s an exciting time to be involved in the cooperative housing movement, and we look forward to connecting with our residents and members on a deeper level.

Together we can shape the future of housing and celebrate the achievements of our members and co-ops. Let’s celebrate all the successes, the past, present, and future and together we can create communities that will last for generations to come. This is the essence of Riverton Community Housing. We invite you to join us in the journey ahead!

#ApartmentLeasing #PropertyManagement #Multifamily #Apartment #StudentHousing